Q&A with Willie le Roux

Wille le Roux returns from injury to join the Springboks. Puma had a quick chat with him.

Q: After being out with an ankle injury, how are you feeling physically?
A: Actually I’m feeling great. My ankle has been kept me out of a substantial amount of rugby during the Super Rugby competition, which allowed me to rest up and put a lot of work into my overall conditioning. Now that my ankle is sorted out I’m feeling strong and raring to go.

Q: This is your first taste of the World Cup – what excites you most about this tournament?
A: Well the idea of all the best players in the World, all in the same place, putting it all out there for their country – that’s what every rugby player dreams about!

Q: You have been playing in PUMA boots since the beginning of this year, which boots do you wear and why do they suit your playing style?
A: I play in evoSPEED and the boots have been fantastic – light, durable and dynamic. They allow me to express myself on the pitch without limitations.

Q: Pre-match, do you have a specific personal routine – any rituals or superstitions we should know about?
A: Not really, I try not to get too worked up or stressed out and waste any unnecessary energy. My position requires me to stay calm and focused in pressure situation so that’s the approach I try to take.

Q: Who was the first person you told after hearing you had been selected for the World Cup squad?
A: I had to take a moment for myself to let it all sink in. After that I had to let my mom and dad know to get their passports ready – it will be their first time abroad.